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do you ever feel like finding balance during the holidays

(which i consider to be the entire month of november and december)

is like searching for a needle in a haystack?

it’s not even halloween yet, well almost, and i’m starting to feel like our calendar is flattening me like a pancake

don’t get me wrong – i love planning and attending social gatherings with friends and family

but sometimes when i begin to look over my planner for the upcomming week

and we have a commitment

every     single     night

my scarf starts to feels a little too tight

and that oh so lovely stress induced vein pops in my forhead

i’ve decided to attempt to rid myself of this years’ holiday madness early

by fully combatting the crazy with these three books

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7: An Experimental Mutiny Against Excess

the author, jen hatmaker identifies seven areas of excess in her own personal life and makes

‘seven simple choices to fight back against the modern-day diseases of greed, materialism, and overindulgence.’

 The Happiness Advantage: The Seven Principles of Positive Psychology

That Fuel Success and Performance at Work

 ‘when we are positive, our brains become more engaged, creative, motivated, energetic,

resilient, and productive at work. this isn’t just an empty mantra.

this discovery has been repeatedly borne out

by rigorous research in psychology and neuroscience, management studies,

and the bottom lines of organizations around the globe.’

pretty powerful stuff ! i previously blogged about positivity and author shawn achor’s TED talks

so needless to say i am really looking forward to digging into this book

Get Some Headspace: How Mindfulness Can Change Your Life in Ten Minutes a Day 

‘As a former Buddhist monk with over 10 years of teaching experience, Andy Puddicombe has been acknowledged as the UK’s foremost mindfulness meditation expert. Like his readers and students, he began his own meditation practice as a normal, busy person with everyday concerns, and he has since designed a program that fits neatly into a jam-packed daily routine—proving that just 10 minutes a day can make a world of difference. Simple exercises, stories and techniques culled from Andy’s years of experience will help anyone calm the chatter in their minds. The result? More headspace, less stress.’

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ok readers of blogs and books

{i had to ..it’s the alliteration}

what helps keep your head in check over the next 2 crazy fun filled months?

xo

design from A to V

any recommendations, medications or mantras to share?